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Lenovo ThinkCentre M720q / M920q

This page covers both the M720q and the M920q. When there are critical differences, they are called out separately.

Lenovo ThinkCentre M720q

The M720q is part of the ThinkCentre Tiny (1L) family and sits as an interesting middle point between the more basic models and the “x” variants.

It shares many similarities with the M920q but comes with clear limitations in expansion and advanced options. Even so, it is a very solid platform for compact servers, home labs, and moderate storage and networking mods.

Technical summary

  • Form factor: 1L (Tiny)
  • Chipset: Intel Q250 / Q270 (variant‑dependent)
  • CPU: Intel 8th / 9th Gen
  • RAM: up to 32 GB DDR4 (2x SO‑DIMM)
  • Storage: M.2 NVMe + 2.5" SATA
  • Networking: integrated Ethernet

Slots and connectivity

  • 1x M.2 2280 NVMe
  • 1x M.2 2230 (Wi‑Fi)
  • 1x 2.5" SATA bay
  • 2x DisplayPort
  • Proprietary PCIe connector (present on some boards, but more limited than on the M920q)

Known limits

  • Less expansion headroom than the M920q/M920x
  • Thermal headroom constrained by the 1L chassis
  • External PSU 65 W or 90 W depending on configuration
  • Riser and advanced mod compatibility depends on the exact board revision

Technical note

Although it is often grouped together with the M920q, the M720q does not always offer the same level of support for PCIe expansion or aggressive mods. It is important to verify the exact board model and BIOS before planning advanced modifications.

Lenovo ThinkCentre M920q

The M920q is the direct evolution of the M710q/M910q in the Tiny ecosystem. It keeps the 1L form factor but brings better CPU support, more stable BIOS behavior, and more headroom for modern mods, especially NVMe storage and networking.

It is one of the most balanced platforms for serious projects.

Technical summary

  • Form factor: 1L (Tiny)
  • Chipset: Intel Q370
  • CPU: Intel 8th / 9th Gen
  • RAM: up to 64 GB DDR4 (2x SO‑DIMM, BIOS‑dependent)
  • Storage: M.2 NVMe + 2.5" SATA
  • Networking: integrated Ethernet, expanded adapter support

Slots and connectivity

  • 1x M.2 2280 NVMe
  • 1x M.2 2230 (Wi‑Fi)
  • 1x 2.5" SATA bay
  • 2x DisplayPort
  • Proprietary PCIe connector (key for networking and expansion mods)

Known limits

  • Thermal headroom limited by 1L chassis
  • External PSU 65 W or 90 W
  • PCIe riser use requires thermal planning
  • Very tight internal space with multiple simultaneous mods